Use Of Tobacco Among North American Indians

Pawnee Priests Making a Smoke Offering

Tobacco, an essential cultural and spiritual element, originated in the Americas and was integrated into the lives of Native North Americans long before European contact. It played vital roles in rituals, ceremonies, and daily life, with various tribes employing diverse species of Nicotiana. Smoking methods varied, with pipes and mixtures often used, while chewing practices are less clearly traced to Indigenous origins. The use of tobacco extended beyond personal use to encompass significant ceremonial functions, underscoring its deep-rooted significance in Indigenous cultures across the continent.

Illinois, Diocese of Belleville, Catholic Parish Records, 1695-1956

Illinois Bellville Church Records

A help guide for accessing the images of parish registers recording the events of baptism, first communion, confirmation (to 1907), marriage (to 1930) or death (to 1956) in the Diocese of Belleville (Illinois), Roman Catholic Church. The index to some volumes may reference pages within a given volume beyond current publication dates. As such, these images are not currently available. In addition to traditional parish registers, this collection includes a small number of census, church history, family and financial records. To assist the researcher I have broken down the available registers by county and name of parish, including the years covered by those parish records.

Biography of Hon. William A. Pearce

William A. Pearce, born in 1861 in Vienna, Illinois, is a notable businessman and public servant in Doniphan, Missouri. After working as a printer, he established a successful general store with R. E. Lee. His political career includes serving as a state legislator and county treasurer, earning respect for his diligent and ethical approach to duty. Married to Kate S. Holbrook, Pearce has three children and is active in community organizations. His success and integrity have made him a respected figure in Ripley County.

Biography of R. I. January

R. I. January, born October 26, 1850, in Oregon County, Missouri, demonstrated early academic and legal prowess. The son of Joab and Amanda M. January, he pursued law after teaching and held various public offices, including county clerk and prosecuting attorney. A self-made man, he also engaged in real estate and owns significant farmland. In 1877, he married Belle C. Shy, with whom he had five children. A Baptist and active Democrat, he is recognized for his community contributions and Masonic leadership.

Biography of Henry H. Stone

Henry H. Stone, born on February 12, 1845, in Johnson County, Illinois, is a successful figure known for his industriousness and perseverance. The son of Thomas and Esther Stone, he was raised in Jackson County and educated at Carbondale College. After marrying Amanda E. Purdy in 1874, he established the first mill in Billings and later ventured into various businesses, including lumber and paving brick. A Republican and a deacon in the Christian Church, Stone has held community roles, including associate judge and school director, and is respected in his community.

Biography of John M. Copeland

John M. Copeland, a pivotal figure in Glasco’s founding, arrived in Cloud County in 1870, where he maintained his original homestead amidst a rapidly changing landscape of land ownership. As a Civil War veteran and early businessman, he established the town’s first store and served as assistant postmaster while contributing to local development. Born in 1839 in Illinois, Copeland married Mary Rutledge, a prominent Kansas family member, and their legacy includes their daughter, Mary Ivy. His life reflects both individual accomplishment and community commitment.

Felts, Mildred Bertha Gore Mrs. – Obituary

Mildred Bertha Felts, 99, of Baker City, Oregon, passed away on August 29, 2004. Born on August 5, 1905, in Elvira, Illinois, she graduated from Johnston City High School in 1924 and later married William Wesley Felts in 1939. A dedicated member of the United Methodist Church, she moved to Baker City in 1982. Mildred was an accomplished artist, enjoying painting and engaging in community activities. She is survived by her daughter, Mary Cunningham, and numerous relatives. Her memorial service is planned for September 2, 2004.

Felts, Mildred Bertha Gore Mrs. – Obituary

Mildred Bertha Felts, 99, passed away on August 29, 2004, in Baker City, Oregon. Born on August 5, 1905, in Elvira, Illinois, she had a lifelong commitment to her faith, becoming an active member of the Methodist Church for over 80 years. Mildred was married to Wesley Felts for nearly 40 years, and they raised one daughter, Mary Catherine. She was passionate about painting and gardening, and she cherished time with family and friends. A memorial service will be held at the Baker United Methodist Church.

1818 Johnson County, Illinois Census

The 1818 Illinois state census provides an early glimpse into the names of the early settlers of Illinois. This particular page is for those individuals who lived in Johnson County. Illinois did not become a state until 1818, and this was the initial census taken by the state to enumerate its citizens and provide them appropriate representation. Our 1818 census transcription provides the following information: The name of the head of household, the page of the census it can be found on, and a range of members of household.